Office of Equal Opportunity

The principle function of the Equal Opportunity (EO) Unit is to ensure that the WDD and all WIOA Title I-B programs, activities, and services that it administers comply with WIOA Section 188 and Nondiscrimination and Equal Opportunity Regulations at 29 CFR Part 38. A primary goal of the EO Unit is to facilitate the integration of equal opportunity and nondiscrimination principles into the administration, management, and delivery of programs and services throughout the Alabama Workforce Investment System.

This unit develops and implements WDD EO/nondiscrimination policies and procedures applicable to the WDD and recipients of WIOA financial assistance from the WDD. The EO Unit reviews Division and local area plans, contracts, and policies, as appropriate, for nondiscrimination assurances and for issues related to compliance with WIOA Section 188 and nondiscrimination regulations. The Unit coordinates and/or provides training and technical assistance to staff and recipients related to universal access in WIOA programs, services, and activities; and in serving customers with disabilities, limited English proficient individuals, and others who may face barriers to successful training and employment opportunities.

In addition to monitoring recipients for compliance with WIOA Section 188 and nondiscrimination provisions, policies and procedures, the EO Unit monitors participation rates among diverse populations eligible for WIOA programs. The EO Unit recommends corrective action and/or uses informal resolution, mediation, or other means of resolution, in the event of noncompliance.